The Complete Guide to Mastectomy Swimwear

Yes, you can look and feel amazing at the beach. Here's everything you need to know about mastectomy swimwear.

Summer is coming, and if you're wondering whether you can still enjoy the pool, beach, or cruise ship after mastectomy, the answer is absolutely yes. Mastectomy swimwear has come a long way. Today's options are fashionable, functional, and designed to make you feel confident in and out of the water.

This complete guide to mastectomy swimwear covers everything from choosing the right suit to caring for your swim form.

How Mastectomy Swimwear Works

Mastectomy swimsuits look just like regular swimwear from the outside. The difference is inside: built-in pockets on one or both sides that securely hold a breast form. The pockets are made from a mesh or lightweight fabric that allows water to flow through while keeping your form in place.

You can choose from one-piece suits, tankinis, bikini tops, swim dresses, and coverup styles. Every major mastectomy brand now offers swim collections.

Choosing Your Swim Form

You have two main options for the form itself:

Swim-Specific Breast Forms

These are lightweight silicone forms designed specifically for water. They're lighter than everyday forms because they don't absorb water, and they often have a slightly different texture that prevents suction against wet skin. Swim forms from Amoena and ABC are popular choices.

Using Your Everyday Form

Some women swim in their regular silicone breast form. This works fine, but keep in mind that standard forms are heavier when wet and chlorine or salt water can shorten the lifespan of a form not designed for water. If you swim regularly, a dedicated swim form is worth the investment.

Lightweight Leisure Forms

For casual pool lounging where you're not doing laps, a lightweight foam or fiberfill form can work well. These dry quickly and are very comfortable in hot weather.

Top Mastectomy Swimwear Picks for 2026

Best One-Piece: Amoena Louisa

The Louisa is a classic one-piece with a flattering ruched midsection, built-in prosthesis pockets, and UPF 50+ fabric. It comes in solid colors and prints, and the higher neckline provides full coverage without looking matronly. This suit makes almost everyone look incredible.

Best Tankini: ABC Beach Perfect Tankini

If you want the coverage of a one-piece with the convenience of a two-piece, this tankini is ideal. The top has secure pockets and a flowy hem that's forgiving around the midsection. Pair it with the matching swim bottoms or your own bikini bottoms.

Best for Active Swimming: Amoena Key West

For women who actually swim laps, the Key West is a sporty one-piece with a racerback design and secure form pockets. It stays in place through flip turns and backstroke, and the quick-dry fabric is treated to resist chlorine damage.

Best Swim Dress: T.H.E. Collection Swim Dress

Swim dresses are incredibly popular with my clients. This one has a fitted bodice with pockets and a flared skirt that provides extra coverage around the hips and thighs. It's cute enough to wear from the pool to a beachside lunch.

Best Budget Option: Jodee Fun in the Sun

You don't need to spend a fortune to look great poolside. The Jodee Fun in the Sun collection offers reliable pocketed swimwear at a lower price point. The styles are basic but well-made, and the pockets securely hold forms up to a DD cup.

Tips for a Great Swim Experience

Try your swimsuit on with your form before heading to the water. Walk around, bend over, reach up. Make sure the form stays securely in the pocket from every angle.

Rinse your swimsuit and form in cool fresh water after every swim. Chlorine and salt water break down both fabric and silicone over time. A quick rinse extends the life of both significantly.

Consider a swim cap or waterproof adhesive strips for extra security. While pocketed swimwear is very secure, some women feel more confident with an additional hold, especially in waves or while diving.

Bring a coverup or sarong for walking to and from the water. Not because you need to hide anything, but because the transition from pool to chair is when forms can shift most.

Wear your swim form on vacation even if you don't swim. Swim forms are lighter and more comfortable in heat than standard silicone forms, making them great for hot weather days even on dry land.

Insurance and Swim Forms

Some insurance plans cover swim forms as an additional prosthesis. Check with your insurance provider. A swim form typically uses the same HCPCS code (L8030) as a standard prosthesis. Your doctor's prescription should note the medical necessity of a swim form for physical activity and rehabilitation.

Mastectomy swimsuits themselves are generally not covered by insurance, though some plans may reimburse a portion under DME benefits.

You Deserve to Enjoy the Water

I've seen so many women skip the beach, the pool, even their grandchild's pool party because they felt self-conscious. Please don't let that be you. With the right swimwear and form, you'll look and feel wonderful.

The water is waiting for you.

Shop Swim Forms | Book a Swim Fitting

Restored by Randi - Compassionate Mastectomy Fitting in West Palm Beach, FL